Spring games are more than just glorified practices—they're auditions. For the Colorado Buffaloes, Saturday's Black & Gold scrimmage is a critical showcase, especially with over 40 new faces on the roster. While fans get their first look at the revamped squad, for several returning players, it's a prime opportunity to make a statement and solidify their roles before fall camp.
All eyes will be on the quarterback battle. With Shedeur Sanders off to the NFL, the competition is wide open. Transfer Destin Wade and freshman sensation Isaac Wilson are in the mix, but incumbent Ryan Staub has the experience. The spring game is his chance to prove the offense hasn't skipped a beat and to take firm control of the starting job. A sharp, commanding performance running coordinator Pat Shurmur's system would go a long way in building crucial momentum for the summer.
In the secondary, cornerback Jaden Milliner-Jones faces a different kind of pressure. Colorado aggressively reloaded in the transfer portal, bringing in several experienced defensive backs. After a freshman season filled with both flashes of brilliance and typical rookie struggles, Milliner-Jones now has to fight for his spot. A strong showing in man coverage against the Buffs' talented receivers would demonstrate he's made the necessary leap, providing vital depth and stability in a Big 12 conference loaded with elite passing attacks.
The battle at cornerback is perhaps the most open. With Travis Hunter also moving on, a starting job is there for the taking. Transfer Cree Thomas has reportedly impressed coaches, but veteran Kyndrich Breedlove has the most experience in the system. After an injury-plagued 2023, the spring game is Breedlove's platform to show he's healthy, confident, and ready to lock down one side of the field. His performance could be the key to elevating the entire defense.
Beyond these three, several other players, like wide receiver Tar'Varish Dawson Jr., have a chance to turn heads and carve out significant roles. Saturday isn't about winning a game; it's about winning a job and setting the tone for the Deion Sanders era in the new-look Big 12.